Ibex Fire Final Update September 14, 2017

Related Information

A transfer of command to a smaller incident management organization and a local Type 4 Incident Commander took place today on the Ibex Fire. They will complete repair work and monitor the fire where hot spots still remain. Any future fire updates and closure information and changes will be located on InciWeb at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5426/ .

Recent cooler temperatures, precipitation, and lower relative humidity have led to minimal fire activity over the past few days. Weather predictions indicate these weather trends will continue, allowing fire managers to engage in rehabilitation efforts safely.

The Fire will not be called contained until a season ending event, such as snow covering the fire area for an extended period of time. Fire and smoke may still be visible from the fire and the Custer Motorway (FS Road #070). The Motorway remains open to all traffic.If traveling in the area, be prepared to encounter traffic associated with the fire and other forest visitors.

Emergency Area Closure Order Number 04-13-596 that went into effect September 6 has been terminated. To provide protection to forest visitors from current fire safety hazards, Emergency Area Closure Order Number 04-13-597 maintains the closure of the following trails only:

East Mayfield Yankee Fork Trail #4114

Trapper Creek Trail#4119

Challis Creek Trail #4147.1

All roads and trails previously closed are now open. It is advised to use caution and be aware of hazards associated with burned areas.Hazards associated with burned areas include conditions such as:

ash and needles on the trail making the trail slippery,

burned out stump holes which can make the ground weak and unstable,

unstable dead trees (especially during windy conditions),

loose rocks and logs, which could cause rolling debris.

Conditions in a burned forest can change constantly. Be alert at all times.Take proper safety precautions such as knowing the weather forecast, letting someone know where you are going, and locating your camp from burned trees.Further information regarding the areas impacted by the Ibex Fire can be found at https://www.fs.usda.gov/scnf/ or by contacting the Challis-Yankee Fork Ranger District at 208-879-4100.

The Ibex Fire started on July 24, eleven miles west of Twin Peaks Lookout in the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness on the Middle Fork Ranger District. An infrared (IR) flight on September 11 estimated fire size at 16, 869 acres.